Overview
Draba helleriana Greene var. helleriana is a type of flowering plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family, also known as the mustard family. It is commonly referred to as Heller's draba and is native to western North America.
Appearance
This plant usually grows up to 2.5 cm tall and has leaves that form a basal rosette. The leaves are spoon-shaped, smooth-edged, and covered with small hairs. The stem is short, and the flowers have four petals that are yellow or white in color. The ovary is curved and hairy, and the fruit is a long and slender capsule that contains small seeds.
Uses
Draba helleriana Greene var. helleriana has no known medicinal uses. However, it is an attractive plant that is cultivated as an ornamental plant in rock gardens and container gardens. It can also be used to attract pollinators to a garden as it is a good source of nectar for butterflies and bees.
Light Requirements
Draba helleriana Greene var. helleriana typically requires full sunlight to thrive. Therefore, it should be planted in an area with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. In areas with hot summer temperatures, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent scorching.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in temperate climates where the temperatures range between 10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F). However, it can tolerate temperatures lower than 0°C (32°F), which means it can survive winter in colder regions.
Soil Requirements
Draba helleriana Greene var. helleriana thrives in well-drained soils that are moist but not waterlogged. It will grow in poor, rocky soils, making it perfect for xeriscaping. The pH of the soil can range from acidic to slightly alkaline, with a preferred range of pH 6.0 to 7.5.
Cultivation Methods
Draba helleriana Greene var. helleriana, also referred to as Heller's draba, is a perennial plant that thrives in alpine and subalpine regions. To cultivate this plant successfully, it is essential to replicate its natural habitat. These plants require well-draining soils and prefer alkaline to slightly acidic soils. They grow best in mild to cool temperatures, with an ideal temperature range between 12°C and 18°C. To cultivate Heller's draba, ensure they are in a location that offers full sun exposure, direct sunlight or partial shade is best.Watering Needs
The Heller's draba prefers evenly moist soils to grow healthily, but it should not remain waterlogged. Since this plant is indigenous to alpine regions, it is essential to ensure that your cultivation area resembles its natural habitat. Therefore, you should water the plant often enough to keep the soil moist. It is crucial to avoid watering the foliage since damp foliage encourages fungal growth.Fertilization
Draba helleriana Greene var. helleriana is not a heavy feeder; therefore, applying slow-release, low-nutrient fertilizers once annually or as needed is recommended. Apply fertilizers when the soil is evenly moist, preferably in the morning.Pruning
To enhance the appearance of Heller's draba, prune them before they start blooming. Removing dead flowers promotes new growth and increases the blooming period. If the plant develops the seed pods, pruning them immediately will prevent the plant from self-seeding. The best time to prune this plant is when the flowers start to fade away, during the late summer or early fall.Propagation of Draba helleriana Greene var. helleriana
Propagation of Draba helleriana Greene var. helleriana can be done through two main methods:
Seed Propagation
Draba helleriana Greene var. helleriana can be propagated via seeds. The seeds should be sow on a well-draining, sterile medium, and covered with a thin layer of soil. The tray or container should be watered regularly, but not excessively, to keep the soil lightly damp. Once the seeds germinate, the emerging seedlings should be transplanted into individual pots and should be placed under suitable light and temperature conditions.
Division of Clumps
Draba helleriana Greene var. helleriana can also be propagated through division of clumps. This method involves dividing the clumps into smaller sections, each with roots and a few leaves. The smaller sections should then be replanted in a well-draining soil mixture under appropriate environmental conditions. While dividing clumps, it is essential to ensure that each of the separated plants has enough roots and leaves to sustain itself.
Propagation of Draba helleriana Greene var. helleriana through either of the above methods has been successful and shown to produce healthy and thriving plants.
Disease Management
Draba helleriana Greene var. helleriana is susceptible to several diseases such as powdery mildew, root rot, and fungal leaf spots. Here are some ways to manage these diseases:
- Powdery mildew: This disease can be managed by ensuring good air circulation around the plant, regularly watering at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the leaves, and removing and destroying infected leaves. Fungicidal sprays may also be used.
- Root rot: Proper drainage and avoiding over-watering can help prevent root rot. Infected plants should be removed and soil in the affected area should be replaced.
- Fungal leaf spots: Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicidal sprays may also be used.
Pest Management
Draba helleriana Greene var. helleriana may also be subjected to various pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and slugs. Here are some ways to manage these pests:
- Aphids: These can be treated by spraying the affected plants with insecticidal soap or by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs.
- Caterpillars: Handpicking caterpillars off of the plant or using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can be effective control methods.
- Slugs: Beer traps, copper tape, and diatomaceous earth are effective ways to control slug infestations. Organic slug baits containing iron phosphate are also effective.
